As a mobility scooter owner, you may be concerned about insurance, liability, and the possible risks associated with owning your device. Here at Mobility City, we’re committed to helping you throughout your entire journey of using a mobility aid.
Thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, businesses and organizations open to the public must make reasonable accommodations for people of all abilities, no matter what kind of mobility devices they may or may not use. We’ll answer some common questions relating to mobility scooters and insurance coverage.
Do I Need Insurance for My New Mobility Scooter?
It is not always legally required to purchase coverage for your mobility scooter. Depending on a number of factors, your individual need for insurance can vary. If you’re purchasing your mobility scooter through a line of credit, your lender may require you to purchase insurance. Your health insurance provider also may ask you to purchase insurance. Make sure to check if your situation deems it necessary to have your mobility scooter covered under an insurance policy.
Are There Places Where I Can’t Use My Mobility Scooter?
The only places you cannot use your mobility scooter are on public roads meant for motor vehicles, motorcycles, and public transportation. Sidewalks, crosswalks, parking lots, and other pedestrian areas are legally required to be accessible for all. Unfortunately, accidents involving motor vehicles can still occur in a crosswalk or parking lot while using your mobility scooter.
How Can I Limit My Liability?
The best way to limit your liability while owning your mobility scooter is to purchase insurance. Mobility scooters can be a large purchase, and with any large purchase, insurance can cover expenses in cases of accident, damage, or theft.
What Kind of Insurance is Right for Me?
There are two different types of insurance coverage that can work for you: property insurance and liability insurance. Policies can cover yourself, your scooter, or both yourself and your scooter.
Depending on your unique situation, you may opt to purchase only property insurance if you primarily use your mobility scooter inside of your home. If you have homeowner’s insurance, your mobility scooter may already be covered under your current policy.
If you regularly use your mobility scooter outside of your home, purchasing liability coverage may be a good option for you. This can cover you as an individual from liability if an accident were to happen where you injure someone with your device and you are found at fault.
How Much Does Insurance for a Mobility Scooter Cost?
Costs associated with purchasing insurance will vary depending on your amount of coverage, differences in monthly payments and premiums, as well as where you live. Depending on the insurance company, you may be able to pay for several years at a discounted rate. If you do decide to purchase insurance and eventually buy a new scooter or device, make sure to talk with your insurance provider about any changes that occur, as it may disrupt your ongoing policy.
Having insurance coverage for your mobility scooter can bring peace of mind to you and your family. If your scooter is broken or damaged, insurance can cover the cost of repairing your device as well as paying for a rental replacement while you wait. Although insurance for your mobility scooter may not be legally necessary, it can give you comfort in knowing if anything were to happen, you’d be covered legally and financially. Here at Mobility City, we are committed to helping you find the freedom, comfort, and safety that comes with owning a mobility scooter. Find one of our mobility showrooms near you to speak to a member of the Mobility City family of experts to help you answer all of your mobility scooter needs!
